Maryland Jury Instruction — 1.9.1 Miscellaneous Issues Respondent Superior is a legal instruction used in the state of Maryland regarding the principle of respondent superior, also known as vicarious liability. This instruction helps guide the jury in understanding the legal responsibility of an employer or principal for the acts of their employee or agent. In Maryland, there are various types of cases where the principle of respondent superior may apply. Some of them include: 1. Employment Cases: This instruction may be applicable in cases where an employer is held liable for the actions of their employees. For example, if an employee causes harm or injury to another person while performing their job duties, the employer may be deemed responsible under the doctrine of respondent superior. 2. Agency Cases: The respondent superior instruction may also be relevant in cases involving the actions of agents. An agent is a person who acts on behalf of another, such as a real estate agent or a lawyer. If an agent's actions result in harm or damage to another person, the principal (the person the agent represents) may be held responsible. 3. Negligence Cases: In negligence cases, where the key element is proving the defendant's duty of care towards the plaintiff, the respondent superior doctrine can come into play. If the defendant is an employer or principal, their duty of care may extend to the actions of their employees or agents, and they may be held vicariously liable for any harm caused. 4. Professional Liability Cases: Professionals such as doctors, lawyers, or accountants can be held responsible for the negligence of their employees or associates under the respondent superior principle. If an employee of a professional causes harm or acts negligently while performing their professional duties, the principal or employer may be held liable. The Maryland Jury Instruction — 1.9.1 Miscellaneous Issues Respondent Superior guides the jury in understanding the relevant legal principles involved in determining the liability of an employer or principal for the actions of their employees or agents. It ensures that the jury considers the doctrine of respondent superior when assessing liability in cases where it may be applicable.